In a recent legal development, the release of Rahul Sadasivan’s upcoming Malayalam film, ‘Bramayugam,’ starring Mammootty in the lead role, faces a significant hurdle. The movie, initially scheduled for release on February 15, has encountered a legal challenge stemming from a Brahmin household in Kerala.
The head of Punjamon Illam, a 200-year-old Kottayam ‘Mana,’ has approached the Kerala High Court, seeking the withdrawal of the film’s censor certificate. The petitioner filed a case against the filmmakers, alleging that the lead character’s name, Kunjamon Potty, in the movie defames their family.
Under Section 5B of the Cinematograph Act, 1952, the High Court addressed the plea, expressing concerns about the perceived negative portrayal of Mammootty’s character in ‘Bramayugam.’ The petitioner argued that the depiction was “negative and defamatory,” posing a threat to the family’s reputation. The plea emphasized the potential serious prejudice to the petitioner, family members, ancestors, and successors if the lead character’s name and its traditional home were not changed.
The petitioner further urged the revocation of the film’s certification, citing the portrayal of Mammootty’s character practicing black magic.
While the filmmakers have not publicly responded to the legal dispute, reports indicate that the lead character’s name has been altered from Kunjamon Potty to Kodumon Potty. The true nature of the lead character remains undisclosed, despite hints in the trailer suggesting a grey-shaded role.
‘Bramayugam’ is set to be presented in black-and-white, adding a noir feel to the horror drama. The film also features Arjun Ashokan, Sidharth Bharathan, Amalda Liz, and Manikandan R Achari in pivotal roles, with the backdrop of the 18th century.
